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Texas Comptroller

State tax permits and compliance information

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts is responsible for collecting state taxes, administering tax permits, and ensuring compliance with Texas tax laws. All businesses operating in Texas must register with the Comptroller for applicable tax permits and file regular tax returns.

Tax Services & Permits

Sales and Use Tax Permit

Register for a sales tax permit to collect and remit Texas sales tax

  • Required for businesses selling taxable goods or services
  • Free to obtain through Webfile system
  • Must file returns monthly, quarterly, or annually
  • Penalties apply for late filing or payment

Franchise Tax

Annual tax levied on businesses chartered or doing business in Texas

  • Applies to most business entities except sole proprietorships
  • Based on taxable margin calculation
  • Annual report due May 15th
  • No tax owed if revenue under $1.23 million

Employer Tax Accounts

Register for unemployment insurance and payroll tax obligations

  • Required if you have employees in Texas
  • Unemployment insurance tax registration
  • Quarterly wage reports required
  • Online filing through Webfile system

Mixed Beverage Tax

Special tax permits for businesses selling alcoholic beverages

  • Required for restaurants and bars serving alcohol
  • 8.25% gross receipts tax on mixed beverages
  • Monthly reporting and payment required
  • Separate from sales tax permit

Webfile Online System

Webfile is the Texas Comptroller's free online system for managing your tax accounts, filing returns, and making payments. All businesses are encouraged to use Webfile for faster processing and immediate confirmation.

File and pay sales tax returns online
Register for new tax permits
Update business information
View filing history and payment records
Set up payment plans for outstanding balances
Download tax forms and publications

Tax Publications & Guides

Texas Tax Publications

  • Publication 94-101: Texas Sales and Use Tax
  • Publication 96-122: Franchise Tax Overview
  • Publication 96-1045: Exemption Certificates
  • Publication 94-117: Manufacturing Exemptions

Industry-Specific Guides

  • Restaurant and Food Service Tax Guide
  • Construction Industry Tax Guide
  • Retail Sales Tax Guide
  • Healthcare Provider Tax Guide

Important Tax Deadlines

January 20

December sales tax due (monthly filers)

January 31

Q4 sales tax due (quarterly filers)

May 15

Franchise tax annual report due

20th of each month

Previous month sales tax due

Note: If a deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, the due date is the next business day. Late filing or payment may result in penalties and interest charges.

Taxpayer Assistance

Contact Information

Toll-Free

1-800-252-5555

Email

tax.help@cpa.texas.gov

Hours

Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM CT

Official Website

Visit the Texas Comptroller website for forms, publications, online filing, and detailed tax information.

comptroller.texas.gov

Need Help with Tax Compliance?

Our team can help you understand your tax obligations and ensure your business stays compliant with all Texas Comptroller requirements.

Contact Us